Amphoteric copolymer derived from vinylpyridine and acetoxystyrene

Abstract

A unique polymer was synthesized via copolymerization of vinylpyridine and acetoxystyrene under radical-initiated conditions followed by acidic or basic hydrolysis of the acetoxy group to afford the corresponding hydroxy group. The built-in acid-base dual functionality (phenolic and pyridyl units) in this polymer backbone gives rise to its unique solubility properties over a wide pH range in both aqueous and non-aqueous media. Due to its amphoteric nature, this polymer finds application as an anti-stat, viscosity modifier, and/or ion-exchange resin.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A process for preparing an amphoteric polymer which comprises the steps of reacting vinylpyridine with acetoxystyrene and then subjecting the resultant polymer to acid hydrolysis. 
     
     
       2. The process of claim 1 wherein there is present in the reaction step a suitable catalyst. 
     
     
       3. The process of claim 2 wherein the mole ratio of the vinylpyridine to acetoxystyrene is about 1:1. 
     
     
       4. The process of claim 1 wherein the reaction step is conducted at a temperature of about 50° C. to about 100° C. 
     
     
       5. The process of claim 1 wherein the reaction step includes the use of a suitable organic solvent.